Remember the days of simple phones, long battery life, and durable designs? The Samsung E1170 and Vodafone 246 represent that era perfectly. We're diving deep into a comparison of these two classic feature phones to see which one holds up best today.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones offer basic functionality and exceptional battery life. The Vodafone 246 likely edges out the E1170 due to potentially slightly better build quality and a more modern (for the time) design, though both are excellent choices for a no-frills experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, April. Released 2010, April | 2010, April. Released 2010, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 108.7 x 46.1 x 14.1 mm (4.28 x 1.81 x 0.56 in) | - |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 72 g (2.54 oz) | - |
| | - | Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 128 x 128 pixels, 1:1 ratio (~119 ppi density) | - |
| Size | 1.52 inches, 7.5 cm2 (~14.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.44 inches |
| Type | CSTN, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 16MB | - |
| Phonebook | Yes, up to 200 entries | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | No | No |
| Games | Yes | No |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| | Organizer
Predictive text input | Calculator
Currency converter
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 830 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 10 h 30 min | - |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 30 EUR | - |
| SAR EU | 0.57 W/kg (head) | - |
Samsung E1170
- Extremely long battery life
- Durable build quality
- Simple and easy to use
- Compact and lightweight
- Very basic features
- Low-resolution display
- Slow performance
- No camera (likely)
Vodafone 246
- Long battery life
- Potentially slightly better build quality
- Simple and easy to use
- Compact design
- Very basic features
- Low-resolution display
- Slow performance
- No camera (likely)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature small, monochrome displays typical of their era. Expect low resolution and limited viewing angles. The Vodafone 246 might have a marginally brighter or slightly more modern display, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Neither phone is likely to have a camera, or if present, it will be a very low-resolution, rudimentary model. Image quality will be extremely poor by modern standards. This comparison section is largely irrelevant.
Performance
Performance is limited to basic call and text functionality. Neither phone offers any advanced processing capabilities. Expect slow menu navigation and limited features beyond communication.
Battery Life
Battery life is a major strength for both. Expect several days, if not a week or more, of usage on a single charge, thanks to the lack of power-hungry features.
Buying Guide
The Samsung E1170 is ideal for those seeking a truly minimalist phone for calls and texts, prioritizing simplicity and durability. The Vodafone 246 is a good fit for users who want a slightly more refined retro experience with a potentially more robust design, still focused on core communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones suitable for modern use?
They are primarily suitable for basic calls and texts. Don't expect to use them for apps, internet browsing, or modern features.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely need to search online marketplaces like eBay or similar platforms specializing in vintage or used electronics.
